Intention vs. Will

Attribute	Intention	Will
Definition	The mental state of desiring or planning to do something	The mental faculty by which one deliberately chooses or decides upon a course of action
Consciousness	Can be conscious or unconscious	Usually involves a conscious decision or choice
Volition	May or may not involve a strong sense of volition	Strongly associated with volition and determination
Execution	May or may not lead to action	Usually leads to action or behavior
Control	May or may not involve a sense of control	Often involves a sense of control over one's actions

Definition

Intention and will are two concepts that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Intention refers to a mental state that represents a commitment to carrying out a specific action in the future. It involves a conscious decision to act in a certain way. Will, on the other hand, is the mental faculty by which a person decides on and initiates action. It is the determination to do something, regardless of any obstacles or challenges that may arise.

Clarity

One key difference between intention and will is the level of clarity involved. Intention is often more vague and open-ended, while will is more focused and determined. When someone has an intention to do something, it may not be as concrete or well-defined as when they have the will to do it. Will involves a stronger sense of purpose and commitment, leading to a clearer path towards achieving a goal.

Commitment

Another distinction between intention and will is the level of commitment they imply. Intention can be seen as a preliminary step towards taking action, while will signifies a deeper commitment to follow through with that action. When someone has the will to do something, they are more likely to overcome obstacles and persevere in the face of challenges. Willpower is often associated with a strong sense of determination and resolve.

Execution

Intention and will also differ in terms of execution. Intention is more about setting a goal or objective, while will is about taking the necessary steps to achieve that goal. Will involves the actual implementation of a plan or strategy, whereas intention is more about the initial decision-making process. Willpower is what drives a person to take action and make things happen.

Consistency

Consistency is another factor that sets intention apart from will. Intention can be fleeting and easily swayed by external factors, while will is more steadfast and unwavering. When someone has the will to do something, they are more likely to stay committed to their goal over the long term. Willpower helps to maintain consistency and focus, even when faced with challenges or setbacks.

Resilience

Resilience is a key attribute of will that distinguishes it from intention. Willpower enables a person to bounce back from failures or setbacks and continue working towards their goals. It provides the strength and determination needed to overcome obstacles and persevere in the face of adversity. Intention, on the other hand, may not have the same level of resilience and may falter in the face of challenges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, intention and will are two related but distinct concepts that play a crucial role in achieving goals and making things happen. While intention represents a commitment to a future action, will is the determination and drive to follow through with that action. Willpower is what enables a person to overcome obstacles, stay committed to their goals, and ultimately achieve success. By understanding the differences between intention and will, individuals can harness the power of both to achieve their desired outcomes.